Robertson is one of the most trusted faces in TV news, spending 35 years as Chief Anchor and Senior Editor of the country’s most-watched national newscast, CTV National News. A broadcaster since 1952, Robertson is a three-time Gemini award winner, and member of both the Canadian Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame and the Order of Canada.

“Lloyd’s efforts as a journalist and communicator have made Canada a better place,” says BU President and Vice-Chancellor Deborah Poff. “We applaud his career, his contributions and his national pride.”

In addition to television work, Robertson was honourary chairperson of the Terry Fox Run. In 2006, he received an honourary degree from Royal Roads University in Victoria, BC.

Robertson will receive his BU degree next month, along with 600 BU graduating students.

Brandon University, founded in 1899, promotes excellence in teaching, research, creation and scholarship; educating students so that they can make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders.

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Michael Decter is President and CEO of the investment company LDIC Inc., author of eight books and popular lecturer with the National Speakers Bureau. A former Deputy Minister of Health for Ontario and Cabinet Secretary in the Government of Manitoba, Decter was the founding Chair of the Health Council of Canada and continues to serve with numerous non-profit health care organizations.

“Michael brings incredible depth to BU, through both his career experiences and vast network,” says University President and Vice-Chancellor Deborah Poff. “We welcome Michael and anticipate that his leadership will help us grow as an institution during his term as Chancellor.”

The BU Senate ratified Decter’s appointment this week. He will be officially installed May 31^st during Convocation, taking over from Henry Champ who passed away in September 2012 during his second term as Chancellor.

Decter, a native Manitoban and recipient of the Order of Canada, served on the Brandon University Foundation and as Chair of the Stanley Knowles Distinguished Professorship Endowment Campaign in the 1980s.  He now resides in Ontario.

Brandon University, founded in 1899, promotes excellence in teaching, research, creation and scholarship; educating students so that they can make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders.

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Figures released today by BU’s Admissions Department show that 636 persons have applied to attend the University as new students beginning this fall. That compares to 528 in February 2012, 619 in 2011 and 567 in 2010. BU’s overall annual enrollment exceeds 3,000.

“This year to date, we have seen a substantial increase in student applications,” says Murray Kerr, Director of Admissions. “This number includes international and domestic, graduate, undergrad and EAP students – anyone considering BU.”

BU President and Vice-Chancellor Deborah Poff says the numbers show a strong commitment to higher education and, in particular, Brandon University. “Students, parents and alumni recognize that we offer a quality of education unavailable at other institutions. We are proud of that and welcome each student who chooses BU.”

Students wishing to be considered for BU’s substantial scholarship program must apply by March 1^st. Over the past year, the University has awarded more than $1.4-million dollars in scholarships.

Brandon University, founded in 1899, promotes excellence in teaching, research, creation and scholarship; educating students so that they can make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders.

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“In Washington,” says Lyne Milette, “I saw that education and ability to communicate are essential to success at a high level. I observed that first-hand, watching public figures inspire huge crowds. It was incredible.”

Milette was asked to attend the inauguration by the Gold Key International Honour Society – one of 800 Society members invited from around the world and the only representative from Manitoba. She spent five days in Washington culminating in the swearing-in of the President before an estimated crowd of 800,000 near Capitol Hill.

In her third-year of an Arts degree and enrolled in BU’s Applied Disaster and Emergency Studies program, Milette was particularly interested in the security and crowd management in effect at the inauguration.

Milette plans to share her experiences by talking with students in local high schools. She also hopes to return to Washington for a networking conference.

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For more information, please contact:

Glen Kirby
Communications Officer
Brandon University
204-727-9762
kirbyg@brandonu.ca

]]> http://www.brandonu.ca/news/2013/02/14/bu-student-attends-obama-inauguration/feed/ 0 http://www.brandonu.ca/news/2013/01/21/bu-prof-publishes-new-book-on-holy-land/ http://www.brandonu.ca/news/2013/01/21/bu-prof-publishes-new-book-on-holy-land/#comments Mon, 21 Jan 2013 19:38:17 +0000 kirbyg http://www.brandonu.ca/news/?p=3133 BRANDON, MB – A professor at Brandon University (BU) has written a book exploring the social, political, and religious changes in Palestine from the ‘stone age’ to the Persian and Roman eras.

Dr. K. L. Noll, Chair of the Religious Studies Department at BU, says ‘Canaan and Israel in Antiquity: A Textbook on History and Religion’ is designed for readers who have not previously studied the ancient Near East.

“This book will appeal to anyone interested in the ancient world or religious history,” says Dr. Noll. “Usually these types of books are written by academics for an academic audience, or they are written to prove or disprove the Bible. My book is for people with no background and genuine curiosity.”

This is the second, and fully revised, edition of the book. The first edition was published in 2001 and has been assigned for university courses in Canada, the United States, England, and the Netherlands. The new edition reflects the latest archaeological findings, adds new material on the religiously diverse environment of ancient Israel, and incorporates new maps, photographs, and translations of ancient inscriptions.

“Most textbooks on this topic assume that the students already know the key terms, the geography, and the historic background,” says Dr. Noll, “but often the students do not, and as a result they are frustrated. I wanted to create a textbook for students who are interested in ancient Palestine but have not yet examined it from an academic point of view.”

Dr. Noll has taught at Brandon University since 2005, offering courses in theoretical study of religion, Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and biblical languages. In addition to ‘Canaan and Israel in Antiquity’, he has written ‘Faces of David’ as well as 20 journal articles and book chapters dealing with ancient religion, ancient Judaism, and earliest Christianity.

Noll earned a Ph.D. from Union Presbyterian Seminary in Richmond, Virginia, and has taught for several Christian seminaries in the United States. He also taught history at Penn State University in Pennsylvania, then religious studies at Kentucky Wesleyan College in Kentucky.

The 434-page book is published by T&T Clark Bloomsbury, London and New York and available at the BU bookstore and through online booksellers.

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For more information, please contact:

Glen Kirby
Communications Officer
Brandon University
270-18th Street
Brandon, MB R7A 6A9
(204) 727-9762
kirbyg@brandonu.ca

Dr. Fearon holds a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Western Ontario and is currently Dean, The G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education at Ryerson University in Toronto. Dr. Fearon previously served as an Associate Dean for Academics and Students at York University. He is the recipient of awards for teaching excellence and has published in numerous academic journals. Prior to his work in post-secondary education, Dr. Fearon served with the Treasury Board at the Ontario Ministry of Finance as well as the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

“I am thrilled to be joining Brandon University,” says Dr. Fearon. “I am looking forward to the opportunity to contribute to the University as well as to the Brandon community.”

As part of the senior executive team, Dr. Fearon will develop and promote academic programming and research advancement, overseeing the Faculties of Arts, Sciences, Health Studies and Education; and the School of Music. He will also oversee Graduate Studies; Campus Manitoba; Student and Registrarial Services; Library Services; and Information Technology Services.

BU President and Vice-Chancellor Deborah Poff says, “Dr. Fearon is an experienced academic leader and administrator. He has a commitment to community engagement that fits well with Brandon University’s mission and mandate. I look forward to welcoming and working with our new Vice-President Academic and Provost.”

Dr. Fearon will begin at BU on July 1, 2013.

Brandon University, founded in 1899, promotes excellence in teaching, research, creation and scholarship; educating students so that they can make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders.

For more information, please contact:

Glen Kirby
Communications Officer
Brandon University
270-18th Street
Brandon, MB R7A 6A9
T: (204) 727-9762
Email: kirbyg@brandonu.ca

“I received this invitation and of course accepted to attend. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!” said Milette, who is also the mother of two teens and a military wife. “I really want to analyze the thoughts and the psychology behind politicians’ debates and speeches, to find out how they inspire the population to follow their ideas and become involved, how they promote patriotism and so on.”

A native of Sorel, Quebec and a French-only speaker, Milette first embarked in English-for-Academic-Purposes (EAP) classes in September 2010. After a three-month EAP course, she officially launched her post-secondary education — primarily in English — with a major in psychology and a double minor philosophy and French. With a GPA of 4.03 — that she achieved while her husband was away in Afghanistan for 14 months during her studies — she is on track to finish a three-year degree in two years.

“I’ve seen and have experienced a lot of life. This gives me a perspective and a great advantage that 20-something university students may not have,” she said. “My experience allows me to see beneath the superficial and allows me to focus on how people think and the long-term results of decisions. I have a good nose to know how things will turn out, more so than someone who simply listens to a speech and does not investigate it further. I’m not limited to the emotion of the speech, I like to dig behind the words and seek out their long-term motivation.”

One of her professors, Dr. Steven Robinson has witnessed Milette’s seriousness and determination, two qualities that have enabled her to shine in her studies.

“Of all of my students, Lyne was the one making the most connections between the course material and her own life and times,” he said. “I have also had opportunities to speak with her outside of class and learned that she is a very engaged and principled student who is committed to bettering her circumstances through higher education. I have high hopes for Lyne in her future educational and professional achievements. She is an excellent candidate to attend the Presidential Inaugural Conference in Washington, D.C., and I know she will make the most of this wonderful opportunity and will make Brandon University proud.”

Of this student’s achievements, Brandon University’s President and Vice Chancellor Dr. Deborah Poff said: “This is exactly why I wanted Brandon University to become members of Golden Key. This is just the kind of student that we need to encourage and I am so pleased that she will be able to attend this historical event. ”

Milette will be in D.C. from January 19 to 23, 2013, during which time she will take part in presentations and Q&A sessions with the Honorable John Ellis (Jeb) Bush and the Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. as well as various debate sessions. She will have the opportunity to witness the Inaugural Parade as well as enjoy a private tour of the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History and take part in the Gala Inaugural Celebration. Upon her return from this event, Milette plans to give a lecture at BU. Details will be shared as soon as they become available.

“One of my goals in doing this is to encourage my fellow students, whether they’ve immigrated to Canada and they’re having a hard time with English or they’re finding their overall studies difficult. I know what it’s like,” said Milette, who added that the help she has received from her professors has enabled her to succeed. “The greater the effort you apply to your studies, the greater the benefits at the end of the line. Effort produces beautiful outcomes and great opportunities. Maintain your courage. You never know what’s around the corner.”
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“I want to start researching and publishing and getting (papers) out there, as soon as I can,” said Bentley. “And I think I’m ahead of the game because of what BU has given me, including the personal attention you get.”

However, university studies were not always topmost on Bentley’s mind.
When he graduated from Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School in 2006, he was not quite ready to embark on more studies. Instead, at the tender age of 18, he got some life experience by teaching in a remote area in China. After two years overseas, he returned to Brandon and embarked on a journey not only of knowledge, but also of self-discovery.

He chose Brandon University for many reasons, notwithstanding the fact that he could be close to his family and friends. His experiences in China inspired him to become a teacher in earnest and he had heard that the education program at BU was very good. So, he initially planned to pursue an education degree, after a three-year degree in English.

“I first saw (my undergrad years) as this in-and-out kind of experience before going into education, then I would really start my life,” he said. “But no. It was at BU, that the very amazing, knowledgeable, personal, helpful faculty in the history department opened my eyes in a lot ways — to new ideas, new ways of thinking about the world, possibilities, and about my own education and the education I give to others.”

History became his new focus and through his studies, he has come to define this area of study very differently. Like many, he thought history was lists of dates, facts and events in the distant past.

“History to me now is something that is dynamic and very much happening now. It’s a way of understanding critically so much of the world, systems, governments and societies,” Bentley said. “It just complements my education goals so well. I don’t want to be a public school teacher (any more). I want to pursue some of these ideas and I don’t want them to be limited to my experience. I want to expand on these and look at them more critically in education.”

For two and a half years, while studying at BU, Bentley taught adult English-as-an-Additional-Language (EAL) classes at Westman Immigrant Services (WIS). His students appreciated his fun-loving, personable nature as well as his innate teaching skills.

“Chris is a born performer/teacher sort of person. He was very comfortable with the adult learners, very kind and was always willing to learn. Through this, he discovered that he’s interested in adult education and that’s what he wants to pursue,” said Doreen Cooper, the language program coordinator at WIS. “We’re going to miss him next year!”

These years at WIS also contributed to the fine-tuning of his focus for his upcoming graduate studies and his ultimate goal of developing appropriate curricula for adult learners.

“Teaching adults has so much potential for creating a very different kind of social consciousness that you can’t get from kids,” Bentley said.

One of his history professors, Dr. James Naylor witnessed Bentley’s growth, his engagement and his development during his studies at BU.

“When he first showed up in class, he was mature and did what we want students to do: To take control of his education, to be open to everything, and out of that, pick what he was felt would be socially useful and apply himself to it,” said Naylor. “I watched him come to terms with what he wanted to do, and intellectually, very much carving out his own niche. Also, it’s been intriguing and invigorating reading his work.”

This fall, Chris will continue his studies with several scholarships in hand, entering a master of education program at York University. He will be concentrating on language, culture and teaching, with long range plans to pursue a doctorate. Afterward, he hopes to develop curriculum for adult learners and perhaps return to the classroom.
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Honorary Doctorate Recipients

• Annette Thorimbert Osted: A dedicated psychiatric nurse, Mrs. Osted also held the position of Executive Director/Registrar of the College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Manitoba (CRPNM) for more than 30 years. Throughout her career, she also devoted time to volunteer, gravitating to organizations that help those afflicted by a mental illness.

• Anton Kuerti: An Officer of the Order of Canada, Mr. Kuerti is acclaimed for his performances of Beethoven’s music and has appeared with many of the world’s top orchestras. With more than 25 discs to his credit, he is also avid chamber musician has collaborated with other remarkable instrumentalists, the likes of Yo-Yo Ma and the Tokyo String Quartet.

Distinguished Teacher Award Recipients

• Dolores Hardy: Born in Rossburn, Manitoba and raised in Mississauga, Ontario, Ms. Hardy is a Brandon University alumna. She spent her first year teaching in Alexander, followed by 21 years at King George School in Brandon.

• Brigit Lavallee: Raised in Winnipeg, MB, Brigit graduated from the University of Manitoba in 1994. She taught for 10 years in Roblin, MB and is now teaching History and English in Rossburn Collegiate.

• Sherryl Maglione: Born and raised in Alberta, Miss Maglione is currently working on her MEd at Brandon University, with a focus on indigenizing the high school English Language Arts curriculum. She has been teaching for 15 years, and in the past five, her focus as been senior English Language Arts at the Sioux Valley High School.

Board of Governors Community Service Award Recipient

• Patrick Johanneson: Patrick, who was born and raised in Ste. Rose du Lac, writes science fiction and fantasy, and has been published in On Spec, Tesseracts 14 and Daily Science Fiction. In 1997, he started taking judo lessons. In 2009, he received his shodan (or first degree black belt) and he currently runs the Brandon Judokan club, which practices in the Brandon University gym. Patrick also volunteers at the Evans Theatre.

Brandon University Alumni Association’s Outstanding Young Alumni Award

• Rochelle Rands: Rochelle, who grew up in MacGregor, graduated with a B.Ed. from Brandon University in 1998. She first taught in Portage la Prairie at Yellowquill School. During this time, she completed a Post Baccalaureate Certificate in Education and a Post Baccalaureate Diploma in Education from the University of Manitoba. In 2008, she completed the Masters Program in Special Education at Brandon University and became the Assistant Superintendent/Student Services Coordinator for the Pine Creek School Division. In 2009, she transitioned back to Portage la Prairie, where she is in her third year as the Administrator of Student Services.

Brandon University Alumni Association’s Excellence in Teaching Award

• Dr Wendy McCallum: Dr. McCallum holds a Bachelor of Music degree and a Bachelor of Education degree from Brandon University and completed a Master of Music at the University of North Dakota. She received her Doctor of Musical Arts from the University of North Texas. As a faculty member at Brandon University, she conducts the Symphonic Band and teaches undergraduate and graduate conducting courses, as well as instrumental music methods. She is well respected for her knowledge and conducting skills and has been invited to conduct numerous junior high and high school, among other honours.

Valedictorians

• Jennifer Shead: Born and raised in Winnipeg, Jennifer moved to Brandon to pursue her studies in Music Education after high school. During her time at Brandon University, she performed as a member of the National Youth Band of Canada (NYB) in 2010, worked as a Student Ambassador for Recruitment & Retention, and served as President of the Brandon University Student Music Educators Association (BUSMEA). A multi-scholarship winner, she has been accepted into the flute masterclass program at the Orford Arts Centre in Orford, Quebec for the summer of 2012. She hopes to teach instrumental music in the public school system in Manitoba in the fall.

• Kelsey Grindey: With a lifelong desire to teach, Kelsey left her small rural hometown just outside of Winnipeg and enrolled at Brandon University. During summer breaks, she moved back home to work with Aboriginal youth in Winnipeg’s inner city. She is very proud to be First Nations and is looking forward to starting her career as a Senior Years teacher.

• Natasha Vandamme Born and raised near Baldur, Natasha began her studies at Brandon University in 2008 and is now graduating with a Bachelor of Science (4-Year), with a major in Chemistry and a double minor in Mathematics and Zoology. While at BU, she served several terms as a lab assistant in the Chemistry department as well as was an Academic Residence Advisor. In her third year, she received the Chemical Institute of Canada Silver Medal and she is currently working on an NSERC grant with Dr. Lemaire.

All four ceremonies — at 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on both June 1 and 2 — can viewed via live streaming at:

http://www.brandonu.ca/convocation/video
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